Top 5 Boiler Replacement Tips
Boiler replacement of an existing oil or gas boiler is a significant investment and one which plays a key role in on-going energy costs. Therefore it’s very important to make the right choice and ensure that you are not creating new problems, where they don’t exist. Remember, choosing a “cheap” solution doesn’t necessarily mean that you are getting best value for money long-term. There are lots of short-cuts that some other installers can take on the job, which inevitably lead to more costs for you, down the road.
We have outlined our top 5 things to remember when having your oil or gas boiler changed.
Tip No. 1 – Choose a boiler with a reputable brand name.
There are plenty of lesser-known and cheaper boilers on the market. And choosing such a boiler can make a significant dent in the final bill. However, don’t forget that after-sales service is very important. For example, if your boiler breaks down and you need spare parts for it, is there a proper after-sales network in place where spare parts can be sourced? If there are problems with the boiler on installation (as sometimes happens), is there a local agent, appointed by the manufacturer who can help resolve problems for you? Choosing a reputable brand, with a reputation for reliability and a proper after-sales support network will ensure that any problems that do arise, can be quickly and easily resolved by any central heating fitter.
Tip No. 2 – Make sure that your central heating system isn’t the cause of your boiler problems
In some cases, incompatible design of your heating system can cause technical problems with your boiler. Before making the decision to change the boiler, have your heating engineer check the heating system to ensure that this isn’t the case. For example, check the pipe sizing and ensure that this is compatible with your boiler. At PC Heating, we often see situations where the resolution of other problems on the heating system might have negated the need to change the boiler in the first place.
Tip No. 3 – Pay particular attention to the location of the boiler
This is where energy consumption comes into play. Pay attention to the location of the boiler. For example, if your boiler is on an external wall close to the heat source, this will reduce the amount of water to be heated and therefore reduces energy costs. If using an oil boiler which is located in the garden or at some distance to the boiler, make sure that all underground piping is properly lagged to maximise heat retention and reduce heat loss.
Tip No. 4 – Make sure that the heating system is chemically treated
It’s very important to ensure that the heating system is chemically-treated in line with the boiler manufacturer’s instructions. Failure to do this, can cause long term and irreversible damage to the boiler, particularly in hard water areas such as we have in Meath and parts of Dublin. If your heating system needs to be drained for any reason, (for example if a new radiator is installed), make sure that the fitter tops up the heating system with the relevant chemicals on completion of the job. Make sure that chemicals are also topped up at each annual boiler service.
Tip No. 5 – Use an authorised, well-established RGII registered gas installer
Working on gas appliances and boilers is a dangerous business. Faulty or sub-standard workmanship can represent a serious hazard in your home. For that reason, it is now against the law to have someone work on gas appliances that is not certified and registered with the RGII (Register of Gas Installers in Ireland). Check the register on the RGII site and ask friends, family or neighbours for a recommendation when looking for a competent central heating engineer. And of course, please consider PC Heating & Plumbing for your heating needs.